LIZ JONES: What women really want in their are pockets

LIZ JONES: What women really want in their are pockets
LIZ JONES: What women really want in their dresses are pockets

When the Duchess of Cambridge’s 40th birthday portraits were released, we knew we’d love her hair, her make-up, her general Kate-ness.

But what we hadn’t predicted, and the unexpected joy which sent women into raptures, was the fact that her portrait featured . . . pockets.

Yes, pockets! Big, deep, substantial, hand-hiding ones, buried in a spectacular scarlet one-shouldered gown. It was quite the moment.

‘For my generation,’ one millennial fashionista wrote solemnly on Twitter, ‘the pocket is the equivalent of the contraceptive pill.’ Another added: ‘First we get the pockets, then we get the power, then we get the freedom!’

Amen, sister.

Men were left somewhat baffled by the strength of feeling that mere pockets in a dress could evoke.

When the Duchess of Cambridge’s 40th birthday portraits were released, we knew we’d love her hair, her make-up, her general Kate-ness

When the Duchess of Cambridge’s 40th birthday portraits were released, we knew we’d love her hair, her make-up, her general Kate-ness

But they have never had to struggle with a lack of pockets, or — even more insulting — false pockets. Women know what I mean; those suit jacket flaps full of promise that actually have nothing underneath. Or trouser pockets that couldn’t fit a 2p coin in, let alone an iPhone.

For decades, we have awkwardly juggled our possessions between our hands and our handbags. No man understands the pain of holding a champagne flute, canapé and clutch bag at a party, as someone leans in for a handshake or kiss.

But now, dare I dream, the handbag is dead. Long live the pocket! Because they are unobtrusive, cheap, democratic, levelling little lifesavers.

Just look at Kate, simultaneously regal and can-do casual in her red Alexander McQueen gown. What to do with her hands? Sorted. Can’t be without her phone? No problem.

A woman with her hand in her pocket, as can be seen in all these pictures, is instantly rendered relaxed. With pockets in your dress or skirt you stand taller; you are no longer lopsided, your shoulders aching. You feel free.

I imagine that when Kate’s photo landed, the blood drained from the faces of CEOs of luxury handbag brands around the world. A little like the moment Clark Gable removed his shirt on screen to reveal he wasn’t wearing a vest.

The pocket trend has been growing over the past few years, both on the red carpet and in budget versions.

As these pictures show, the High Street is awash with dresses with hidden depths — from sexy shirt-dresses by upmarket Ted Baker to floral midis by Boden.

But then, even wedding

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